Rupeysh Choudhary: Every bit of the budget spent on Shashtipoorthi is visible on screen

Producer Rupeysh Choudhary makes his acting debut with Shashtipoorthi, a drama that leans into familial emotions, generational value systems, and tender storytelling. Gearing up for release on May 30, the film is directed by Pavan Prabha and features veteran actors like Rajendra Prasad, and Archana. Aakanksha Singh plays the female lead. Rupeysh, who has also produced the film under his own banner, Maa Aaie Productions, says he was drawn to the script for its emotional clarity and cultural rootedness.

“I really liked the story of Shashtipoorthi. These kinds of scripts are rare these days,” he says, adding, “Most films now are filled with violence or bold scenes. So when a script with values and emotional storytelling came to me, I felt truly happy. Though producing it was satisfying, I enjoyed acting in it even more.”

Rupeysh insists the film is entirely fictional but will find resonance with viewers. “When audiences see the characters, they’ll feel a strong connection, as if they’re seeing themselves on screen. Genuine love is hardly portrayed in current cinema. In this film, we’ve shown all kinds of emotions, along with strong family elements.”

Interestingly, Rupeysh became an actor almost by accident. The story, he says, was originally written with veteran actor Rajendra Prasad in mind. “Pavan Prabha wrote the story of Shashtipoorthi specifically for Rajendra Prasad gaaru. And he felt that if the role of his son is played by a newcomer, the audience would approach it with no expectations. That’s why the director wanted a fresh face, and that’s how I came on board.”

A defining highlight of the film, both for its artistic and cultural weight, is the involvement of composer Ilaiyaraaja. Rupeysh shares that the legendary composer embraced the film with generous enthusiasm. “Ilaiyaraaja sir’s music elevated the film. He gave us several options for each song and supported us wholeheartedly. Contrary to rumours, there was never any issue. Keeravani gaaru also supported us a lot by writing a song. All this was possible thanks to Chaitanya Prasad gaaru.”

Rupeysh is clear that Shashtipoorthi deserved a top-tier team from day one. “After hearing the story, I was convinced we needed experienced technicians. The budget exceeded our expectations, but I can say confidently that every bit of that money is visible on screen. No one demanded high fees. They all worked with commitment and belief in the project,” he says.

In preparation, the team conducted multiple workshops to ensure tonal and emotional precision. “For me, emotional scenes come naturally,” he shares, “That’s not overconfidence, it’s just where I feel most comfortable as an actor.”

The film also features production design by Thota Tharani and a soundtrack that includes a song sung by Yuvan Shankar Raja. Rupeysh notes that senior artists came on board not for the money or scale, but for the story itself, “Veteran technicians joined us because they believed in the script. Ilaiyaraaja sir and Thota Tharani sir were moved by the story. And the final output reflects that belief.”

The choice to produce the film under Maa Aaie Productions is a personal one. “This banner is named in memory of my mother,” he explains, “I first entered this film just as a producer. But the way the team and the story shaped up, I felt deeply connected. I’m very happy with how the film turned out.”

On working with seasoned performers, Rupeysh says, “I am playing both roles as a producer and actor, but when I looked at them, I used to wonder why they didn't expand taking up other roles in filmmaking. And then, it made sense to me, why they do that. Whether it’s Rajendra Prasad gaaru, Archana gaaru, or Ilaiyaraaja gaaru, whenever they take up a task, they give it their complete focus. That’s why they’ve reached where they are. Watching them, I’ve learned the importance of dedication.”

The film also weaves in a love story. “Shashtipoorthi features a beautiful romantic track that’s simple and sensitive. Aakanksha acted wonderfully. We didn’t include any unnecessary elements just for the sake of commercial pull. Everything, including Ilaiyaraaja sir’s songs, suits the narrative. The erotic number sung by Yuvan Shankar Raja will definitely attract attention but is very much in line with the story’s mood,” he reflects.

On the release front, Rupeysh shares that the film has already done well with non-theatrical rights and that they’re planning a wide release across the Telugu states. He adds, “Based on the domestic response, we’re thinking of releasing the film overseas slightly later. I believe Shashtipoorthi will benefit from strong word-of-mouth.”

As for the reception he hopes for, Rupeysh is realistic yet hopeful. “In today’s times, making a film like this is a big risk. But I believe we’ve made something that will resonate. We just hope audiences give it the chance it deserves,” he concludes.